Pet Wiki

Romanian Raven Shepherd Dog

Also called Ciobănesc Românesc Corb, Corb

An intelligent, alert guardian that is relaxed and affectionate with its own family but naturally cautious with people it does not know.

SizeGiant
Height65 to 80 cm (26 to 31 in)males 70 to 80 cm, females 65 to 75 cm12
CoatLong, rough double coat
OriginRomania, in the southern Carpathians and the sub-Carpathian hills (Argeș, Brașov, Dâmbovița and Prahova counties).12
GroupFCI group 2
Provisionally recognisedShort profile
Loyal and devoted to its family
Calm and steady at home
Brave, watchful guardian
12

Personality what they are like

An intelligent, alert guardian that is relaxed and affectionate with its own family but naturally cautious with people it does not know. It was bred to work independently protecting sheep, so it combines a calm manner with real courage.12

Coat and looks how to spot one

long, rough double coat

A large, powerful, slightly rectangular dog. The body coat is straight and rough, about 7 to 10 cm long, over a dense undercoat, with shorter hair on the head and legs, a mane around the neck and feathering on the back of the thighs. Males are noticeably bigger than females.12

Coloursblackblack with white on the chest and legs (at least 80% black)12

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Romanian Raven Shepherd Dog. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

  • BrushingDaily during heavy sheddingevery 3 days
  • Double coats insulate against cold and heat, so shaving is not recommended
  • Bathevery 10 weeks
  • Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
  • Ear checkevery 2 weeks
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
  • ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 6every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

An active working dog that needs space and daily outdoor time; it suits a property it can watch over rather than a small flat.12

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Regular brushing keeps the long outer coat and thick undercoat in order, with more frequent sessions when the undercoat sheds.1

Home where they are happiest

Rural or large-garden homes with secure fencing suit this big guarding breed best.2

Company who they like around

Strongly attached to its household; early socialisation helps it stay composed around visitors.12

The story where it all began

Shepherds in the southern Carpathians have kept these black guardian dogs for generations and simply called them 'ravens' after their colour. Romania's kennel club recognised the breed in 2008, and the FCI accepted it provisionally in 2024.123

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    'Corb' means raven in Romanian, a reference to the dog's black coat.2

  2. 2

    Its deep bark is said to carry over long distances across the mountains.1

  3. 3

    It is one of the newest FCI breeds, accepted provisionally in September 2024.3

  4. 4

    At least 80% of the coat must be black; white is allowed only on the chest and legs.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed is called 'Raven' because of its predominantly black coat, which resembles the color of a raven. It has been known by this name for generations.1

Name ideas for your new friend

CorbMihaiCodruțSorinLupSteluțăBravMaximRavenDoinaCezarNorișor

A day in the life told by a Romanian Raven Shepherd Dog

I wake up when the sun kisses the hilltop. First, a slow patrol around the yard, checking every fence post. Then I lie by the gate, ears swiveling like radar. A rustle in the bushes makes me raise my head. Just a cheeky squirrel playing king of the walnuts. I give a single deep bark to remind everyone I’m on duty. My human brings coffee outside. I lean against her knee, soaking up scratches. Later, we walk the meadow. I run wide circles, chasing scents, always returning to her side. Back home, I curl on the cool stone porch, one eye open, dreaming of sheep clouds.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard no. 373, Group 2 (Pinscher and Schnauzer, Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattledogs), Section 2.2 Molossian type, mountain type. Accepted on a provisional basis 17 September 2024; English standard published 24 September 2024.3
Romanian Kennel Club
Recognised 14 November 2008.2

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Frozen Yoghurt & Berry Kong Stuffing

A cooling, low-calorie treat that’s perfect for large dogs who love to lick and work for their food. Blueberries provide antioxidants, and plain yoghurt is gentle on the stomach.

You need

  • 120g plain Greek yoghurt (unsweetened, no additives)
  • 50g fresh or frozen blueberries (chopped if large)

How

  1. Mix the yoghurt and blueberries together in a small bowl.
  2. Spoon the mixture into a Kong or similar treat-dispensing toy.
  3. Place the stuffed Kong upright in a cup or on a tray in the freezer.
  4. Freeze for at least 3-4 hours or until solid.
  5. Give to your dog as a supervised treat.

How much: One stuffed Kong per day for a large/giant dog, reducing their dinner portion accordingly.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Romanian Raven Shepherd Dog, and at what times?

Feed your adult Romanian Raven Shepherd Dog at least two meals a day, ideally at the same times each morning and evening. Puppies need three to four smaller meals daily. Always follow the food label and check with your vet for the right portions.4

What should a Romanian Raven Shepherd Dog eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food suitable for a large, active breed. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Never give raw meat, eggs, or bones.5

How often should I bathe a Romanian Raven Shepherd Dog?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests bathing every 70 days, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty. Avoid over-bathing to protect the natural oils in its double coat. Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Romanian Raven Shepherd Dog need brushing?

Brush every three days to keep the long outer coat and thick undercoat in good condition. During heavy shedding seasons, daily brushing helps remove loose hair.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Romanian Raven Shepherd Dog's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 28 days, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail trimmer and cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid bleeding.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Romanian Raven Shepherd Dog need?

This active working dog needs daily outdoor time and space to roam. Pet Wiki's plan includes daily walks and play, and it suits a property it can watch over rather than a small flat.12 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Romanian Raven Shepherd Dog's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth daily with dog-safe toothpaste, and check ears every two weeks. Never push anything into the ear canal; just wipe the outer ear gently.6 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Romanian Raven Shepherd Dog live?

Lifespan varies by individual, so ask your vet for guidance. Senior years usually start around age 6, and regular vet check-ups help ensure a long, healthy life. Pet Wiki plan

Is a Romanian Raven Shepherd Dog good with children and other pets?

Yes, it is relaxed and affectionate with its own family, including children, when properly socialised. Early socialisation also helps it stay calm around other pets and visitors.12

Can a Romanian Raven Shepherd Dog be left alone?

This breed is strongly attached to its household and may not do well left alone for long periods. It is best suited to homes where someone is around most of the time.12

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. FCI standard no. 373 fci.beused for history, coat, colours, size, temperament
  2. Wikipedia: Romanian Raven Shepherd Dog en.wikipedia.orgused for origin counties, Romanian recognition, temperament
  3. FCI nomenclature: Ciobanesc Romanesc Corb (373) fci.beused for recognition
  4. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.